Denver Broncos defensive back Tracy Porter (22) and linebacker Wesley Woodyard (52) tackle Chicago Bears running back Michael Bush (29) during the first quarter of their preseason opener at Solider Field in Chicago on Thursday, August 9, 2012.

Two days following the Broncos preseason opener in Chicago, head coach John Fox decided the time was right for a little physical challenge.

“The easy thing to do would have been to bring them out in shorts so soon after playing a ballgame,” Fox said. “You’ve only got certain opportunities to go in pads to build the mental toughness of your football team so I thought they responded well.”

Fox put the Broncos in full pads for Saturday morning’s workout at Dove Valley as the Broncos practiced for just over two and half hours. They will have a walk-through Saturday night that is closed to the public and the players will have Sunday off.

“You put the pads on, you know you have to be ready to go,” said linebacker Wesley Woodyard.

Saturday morning’s work was physical overall and the defense had some quality moments in team drills. Linebacker Keith Brooking, who was signed earlier this week, participated fully in practice for the first time.

He lined up at times as the second-team weak-side linebacker. Linebacker D.J. Williams, who has not done much in team drills throughout training camp because he is facing a six-game suspension to open the season, was excused from practice for what the Broncos termed as a personal matter.

Cornerback Tracy Porter didn’t finish the practice because of a hamstring injury.

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